Canadian citizenship applications are processed entirely online. Eligibility requires 3 out of 5 years as a permanent resident, language proficiency, knowledge of Canada, and filing taxes.
- Permanent Resident card
- Tax returns (T1 General) for last 5 years
- Language test results (CLB 4+ in English or French) if required
- Physical presence calculation (990+ days in 5 years)
- Travel history for last 5 years
Verify you meet the physical presence requirement
You must have been physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) in the 5-year period before applying. Time as a temporary resident in Canada counts at half value (up to 365 days). Use the IRCC physical presence calculator at canada.ca to calculate your days.
Gather language proof
If between 18–54 years old, you must demonstrate CLB 4 or higher in English or French. Acceptable evidence: Canadian language benchmark test results (CELPIP, TEF Canada), completion of a Canadian secondary or post-secondary program, or completion of a government-funded language program.
Create your IRCC account and apply online
Go to canada.ca/immigration-apply → Citizenship → Apply online. Complete Form CIT 0002 (Application for Canadian Citizenship — Adults). Upload all supporting documents. Processing: 12–24 months.
Pay the $630 fee
The application fee is $530 (processing) + $100 (Right of Citizenship fee, paid after approval). Pay online by credit card. Fee is non-refundable after processing begins.
Attend the citizenship test and ceremony
You receive a notice to appear for the citizenship test (20 questions on Canadian history, values, institutions; pass = 15/20 correct). After passing, you receive your oath notice and attend a citizenship ceremony where you take the Oath of Citizenship and receive your certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Canada allows dual (multiple) citizenship. You do NOT automatically lose your original citizenship when becoming Canadian. However, your original country may not allow dual citizenship — check with your home country’s embassy.
Generally yes, if at least one parent was a Canadian citizen or permanent resident at the time of your birth. Children born in Canada to foreign diplomats are not automatically citizens. Check with IRCC if there is any uncertainty.